Steam boilers, as equipment for the generation of steam at high pressures and temperatures, are classified as pressure equipment. For their safe and lawful operation in businesses and industrial facilities, both European and national legislation make boiler certification mandatory. This includes initial inspections with the issuance of a Certificate of Receipt, as well as periodic inspections with the issuance of a Periodic Inspection Certificate.
Initial Inspection of a Steam Boiler
Initial Inspection for CE Marking
The inspection and CE marking of steam boilers is mandatory for their release and lawful use in the EU market, according to the EU Pressure Equipment Directive 2014/66/EE.
The construction inspection of a steam boiler is carried out, upon the manufacturer's request, by a Notified Body, such as Ergocert, who can successfully undertake the conformity assessment of the equipment with the European Drective for the placement of CE Marking.
During the inspection, the design of the steam boiler is examined and interim quality and final construction checks are carried out in order to assess its compliance with the requirements of European Directive 2014/68/EU and the construction design standard.
Compliance with the above requirements is mandatory for the legal use of equipment in the EU, as well as for ensuring the protection of human resources and facilities.
Initial Inpsection for the issuance of Receipt Certificate
The installation, operation and inspection of steam boilers is regulated by the national legislation with FEK 2656/B/2012 which defines the necessary requirements and provisions.
For the first commissioning and legal use of a steam boiler, Receipt Certificate must first be issued by an Accredited Inspection Body.
The installation and reception inspection is mandatory and briefly includes:
- Inspection of the building facilities where the equipment will be installed
- Equipment documentation check (check of design and construction compliance with the requirements of the directive, checks of material certificates, etc.)
- Visual inspection of good condition and identification
Periodic Inspection of a Steam Boiler
According to FEK 2656/B/2012, periodic re-inspections are carried out by an Accredited Inspection Body under the responsibility of the equipment owner. The periodic inspection is mandatory and is carried out:
- At regular intervals, depending on the age and category of the equipment,
- Or on an ad hoc basis after major repairs, modifications, or burner replacement
Periodic Inspection Process
The periodic inspection procedure includes:
- Hydraulic testing of the boiler and safety devices
- Checking for a valid Certificate of Acceptance
- Checking safety devices in operation
- Issuance of a re-inspection certificate
The frequency of the periodic inspection is determined by the risk category of the equipment (A, B, C), which in turn is decided by the age, maximum operating pressure and total volume- and can range from every 1 to every 8 years.
The absence of a valid Installation and Reception Certificate or periodic inspection certificate will result in a fine from the state authorities and may even lead to the equipment being taken out of service by the Comeptent Authorities.
Relevant Documents
General Inspection Regulation
Product Certification Regulation
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